Saturday, December 30, 2006

Political river game frustrating reader
I am a private resident angler, with an older two-stroke outboard who has been fishing the Kenai since moving here almost six years ago. Because I am not a longtime resident of the peninsula, I do not pine for the good old days when there were few boats on the Kenai and one could experience what must have been a wonderful “wilderness” experience with the potential to catch a huge fish.

Pebble Mine would create an eyesore for future generations
As a longtime former guide in Bristol Bay I am shocked that the creation of Pebble Mine is even a consideration. Frankly the fact that the entire region of Bristol Bay is not a national treasure under National Park protection is beyond disgrace, it is plainly immoral.

Horsepower issue not all it appears
OK, let’s get the story straight. The Kenai River Special Management Area Advisory Board’s decision to increase the horsepower limit from 35 to 50 horsepower had nothing to do with safety or protecting the fishery. Raising the limit had everything to do with giving the commercial operators (guides) what they wanted.

DUI patrols out in force
Drunken party-goers who decide to take a chance on the roads this holiday weekend will be dealing with a revved up law enforcement team.

Soldier risks life, limb for duty
They say it takes more than just strength, courage and determination to be a soldier. It also takes an indelible resolve in the face of adversity, which a soldier from Nikiski proved he had this past year.

Hey Exxon, it’s time to pay what you owe
It’s a slap in the face.
That’s how many people in the state feel about the appeals court decision to cut in half a $5 billion jury award for punitive damages against ExxonMobil Corp. in the 1989 Valdez oil spill that smeared oil across roughly 1,500 miles of Alaska coastline.

Wind wreaks havoc on trails
The recent gusts of strong wind have taken their toll on area ski trails, but snowmachiners won’t be as limited in their riding opportunities.

Snow birds
Animals deal with winter cold in a variety of ways. Bears tuck in to hibernate in a warm winter den. Moose switch from eating moist leaves to a drier diet of woody stems, branches and bark. And many birds simply fly south to warmer climates.

Clam Gulch a classic experience
Started in 1982, the 23rd running of the Clam Gulch Classic will take place this weekend, but despite being the second-oldest dog sled race on the peninsula, it is still just an informal gathering of dog folk according to race organizers.

Outdoor Briefs
March outdoor activities brewingAdvisory committee elections to be held

Around the Peninsula
Youth New Year's party slatedParenting course offeredMonopoly tournaments to be held

Sports Brief
Peninsula Fight Challenge is tonightVerhelst named to D3football.com All-America team

Church Briefs
Addictions group meetsClothes available for needyKids’ night out plannedBearup to speak at Church of GodBible study group to meetShaping your life class offeredClothes availableAglow to begin Bible studyChurch adds a preschool